Thanks to donations from a "secret Santa" and friends, Metropolitan Ministries of Chattanooga has received $167,900 to help neighbors in need keep warm through the end of the year.
Rebecca Whelchel, executive director of MetMin, said the unknown givers were concerned about people who have to make hard choices at Christmas time, the Chattanooga Times Free Press reported.
The utility EPB said as many as 1,500 households and 3,675 people were set to benefit from the contribution.
The anonymous donors asked that the fund be prioritized to prevent disconnects for first-time nonpayment as well for as seniors and others with special needs.
But EPB officials said they hope the fund will cover the costs for everyone who can't afford to pay their bills during the holidays.
